Pirates 2026 season in review: Catchers

The Pittsburgh Pirates concluded their 2026 season with an 82-80 record, led by an evolving catching group featuring Henry Davis, Rafael Flores Jr., and Endy Rodriguez. While Davis struggled significantly at the plate with a .172 batting average, he established elite defense by throwing out 45.9% of base stealers. Meanwhile, Flores Jr. emerged as an offensive spark, slashing .264/.331/.527 with 11 home runs across 47 appearances.

Injuries heavily altered the depth chart, as Rodriguez suffered a serious left hip injury in August requiring surgery that sidelines him for seven to nine months. Earlier in the campaign, Joey Bart was traded to the Atlanta Braves in June, while Shawn Ross earned limited plate appearances. The writer anticipates Pittsburgh could open 2027 with Flores as the primary starting catcher alongside Davis.